1998 Nissan Serena vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Serena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Serena would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Serena. (96 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Serena.
Because 1998 Nissan Serena is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Nissan Serena. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Toyota Matrix (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Serena. (131 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Serena. 2012 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Serena has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Serena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Serena | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Serena | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2601 mm |
